Calling on the Senate to remove the name of Richard B. Russell from the Russell Senate Office Building.
Impact
The proposed resolution focuses on the significant legislative and cultural implications of honoring a figure like Senator Russell, who was noted for his opposition to civil rights. As such, it prompts discussions about how history is remembered and memorialized, and whether it is appropriate to commemorate individuals whose actions are inconsistent with contemporary values of equality and justice. Should the resolution pass, it would potentially influence how similar memorializations are conducted in the future and could prompt cities, states, and other institutions to reexamine the namesakes of public buildings and other honors.
Summary
House Resolution 654, submitted on August 18, 2023, calls on the Senate to remove the name of Richard B. Russell from the Russell Senate Office Building. The resolution articulates a strong rejection of White nationalism and White supremacy, framing these ideologies as contrary to the core American principles of equality. By condemning the memorialization of Russell, a historical figure identified with segregationist policies and opposition to civil rights legislation, the resolution seeks to address what proponents see as a necessary reevaluation of historical figures honored in the public sphere.
Contention
Critics of the resolution may argue that it represents a form of historical revisionism, suggesting an erasure of the complexity of American history. Proponents, however, assert that this action is necessary to confront the legacy of racism and to establish a more inclusive narrative of American identity. The discourse surrounding HR654 could open doors to broader discussions about the responsibilities of public institutions in recognizing and distancing themselves from figures associated with racist ideologies.
To amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to require schools to provide fluid milk substitutes upon request of a student or the parent or guardian of such student, and for other purposes.
Honoring Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell, 11-time National Basketball Association champion, first Black head coach of the National Basketball Association, and civil rights activist.
Calling on the United States to champion a regional artificial intelligence strategy in the Americas to foster inclusive artificial intelligence systems that combat biases within marginalized groups and promote social justice, economic well-being, and democratic values.
To amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to require schools to provide fluid milk substitutes upon request of a student or the parent or guardian of such student, and for other purposes.
Revitalizing Downtowns Act This bill expands the investment tax credit to add a qualified office conversion credit. The amount of such credit is 20% of the qualified conversion expenditures with respect to a qualified converted building. The bill defines qualified converted building as any building if (1) prior to conversion, the building was nonresidential real property which was leased, or available for lease, to office tenants; (2) the building has been substantially converted from an office use to a residential, retail, or other commercial use; (3) the building was initially placed in service at least 25 years prior to the beginning of the conversion, and (4) straight line depreciation is allowable with respect to the building.